Our next stop in the Alsace region brought us to the beautiful city of Colmar—one of those places that feels almost too picturesque to be real, especially during the Christmas season.
Colmar has an impressively long history, first mentioned in 884 by Charlemagne during the Saxon Wars. Over the centuries, it has shifted between powers—granted Free Imperial City status in 1226 by Frederick II, occupied by Swedish forces in the 1600s, annexed into the German Empire in 1871, and eventually returned to France after World War I.
With each change, the city gathered influences that can still be seen today.
We began our time walking through a small park near the city center, where glittering ornaments hung from the trees and white branch installations lined the pathways. Just beyond it, a smaller Christmas market was set up—quieter and more relaxed than what we had experienced in Strasbourg. Where Strasbourg had felt full to overflowing, Colmar offered space to wander, pause, and take it all in.
There were a few food stalls and a handful of rides, and while our daughter eagerly made her way onto each one, we found ourselves happily standing nearby with warm food and drinks in hand, watching her delight unfold.
From there, it was just a short walk into the historic old town.
The streets narrow and curve, lined with colorful half-timbered buildings that feel almost storybook in their design. Colmar was largely spared destruction over the centuries, and that preservation is evident in the remarkable condition of its architecture. The blend of French and German influences gives the city a layered beauty—different textures, colors, and details that shift from one street to the next.
One of the most recognizable buildings is the Maison Pfister, built in 1537. Its intricate design is a beautiful example of German Renaissance architecture. If it looks familiar, it may be because it inspired parts of the setting in Howl’s Moving Castle.
What stood out most to us, though, was how the city approached its Christmas decorations.
Nothing felt excessive or overwhelming. Instead, the decorations seemed to enhance what was already there—simple touches around windows, greenery draped along railings, and small whimsical details like ladders stretched across the canals with gnomes perched along them. It all felt thoughtful and balanced, allowing the architecture itself to remain the centerpiece.
We stopped into the covered market and wandered through the stalls, taking in the displays of fresh food and local goods. There’s something about markets like this that always draws me in—the rhythm of daily life, the familiarity between vendors and customers, and the sense of community built around something as simple as food.
Just outside the market is the area known as Little Venice, where the buildings follow the gentle curve of the canal. It’s easy to see why this is one of the most beloved parts of the city. The reflections in the water, the soft colors of the buildings, and the quiet movement of people along the walkways all come together into something that feels almost dreamlike.
Nearby, a large ferris wheel rises above the rooftops, offering sweeping views across the city, while along the canal, rows of locks line the railings—small symbols left behind by couples marking their place in time.
There are several Christmas markets scattered throughout the city, but the one we found ourselves returning to was the children’s market.
Part of that was, of course, because of our daughter, who found the entire space to be pure magic. She rode a small galloping horse through rows of decorated trees, her excitement carrying through each turn. But beyond that, there was something special about this market. It felt more local, with handcrafted goods and thoughtful details woven throughout.
Teddy bears tucked into trees, soft music playing, lights strung just enough to create a glow without overwhelming—it all felt quietly festive.
As evening settled in, we made our way back through Little Venice one more time, appreciating the slower pace and the way the lights reflected across the water. Our visit had been during the week, and we could only imagine how much more crowded it might feel on the weekend.
Still, in those quieter moments, we found ourselves completely taken with Colmar.
Know Before You Go
If you’re planning a visit to Colmar during the Christmas season, a few things can help shape your experience:
- Visit during the week if possible
We found the crowds much lighter than other cities, but weekends are noticeably busier. - Wear comfortable shoes
The cobblestone streets are beautiful but uneven. - Take time to wander beyond one market
There are multiple Christmas markets throughout the city, each with its own feel. - Don’t miss the children’s market
Even if you’re not traveling with kids, it has some of the most charming details. - Plan for both day and evening
The city feels completely different once the lights come on.
We fell head over heels in love with the city, wondering if it might just be one of the most beautiful places we’ve ever visited.
And before we left, we returned one last time to the children’s market—for the lights, the music, and one more gallop on a mechanical horse.
For other cities with beautiful architecture and rivers, then you may be interested in these:
Thanks for coming along on this visit to Colmar. May your heart be filled with the simple joys and simple beauty of the season.
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